Applications are now open for the Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) Scholars Programme 2027, a prestigious leadership and networking initiative designed to develop the next generation of leaders in agriculture, food systems, and rural innovation. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the programme offers selected scholars the opportunity to attend the UK’s leading agricultural conference while participating in exclusive training, mentoring, and peer-learning experiences.
The hybrid programme runs from November 2026 to January 2027 and culminates with full participation in the Oxford Farming Conference, taking place from 6–8 January 2027 in Oxford, United Kingdom. The deadline for this application is October 16, 2026.
The Oxford Farming Conference Scholars Programme is a charitable initiative that brings together outstanding young people from diverse academic, professional, and geographical backgrounds. The programme is designed to strengthen leadership skills, encourage innovative thinking, and build meaningful connections across the food and farming sectors.
For 2027, OFC is partnering with Severn Trent Water and Marks & Spencer (M&S) to deliver an enhanced programme featuring in-person events, online learning sessions, and access to one of the UK’s most influential agricultural conferences.
Only 30 scholars will be selected, including 22 sponsored scholar places and 8 fully funded Breaking Barriers scholarships.
Successful participants will benefit from a comprehensive leadership experience, including:
- Full access to the Oxford Farming Conference 2027
- Two nights of accommodation during the conference
- Meals and official conference receptions
- Entry to the Oxford Union Debate and Christ Church Dinner
- Two in-person leadership and industry development events
- Exclusive online workshops and skills development sessions
- Peer networking with emerging leaders across the agri-food sector
Please note that travel costs are not included for the standard Scholars Programme and should be covered by sponsors.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a UK resident
- Be under 30 years of age
- Have never previously attended the Oxford Farming Conference
- Demonstrate an interest in food, farming, agriculture, or related sectors
- Be available to participate in the full programme between November 2026 and January 2027
Importantly, applicants do not need to have studied agriculture or currently work within the agri-food industry. OFC actively encourages applications from individuals with non-traditional educational and professional backgrounds who are passionate about the future of food systems.
https://www.ofc.org.uk/scholarship-programme
Author
Paul Olayioye
